What are the key differences between nitric acid and nitrous acid?

Nitric acid is a strong acid with the chemical formula HNO3, while nitrous acid is a weak acid with the formula HNO2. Nitric acid is a powerful oxidizing agent and is commonly used in industrial processes, while nitrous acid is less stable and is mainly used in chemical reactions. Nitric acid is a stronger acid than nitrous acid, meaning it can donate protons more easily.